When it comes to “Paintshop Pro 2021 crack,” seeking out or utilizing cracked software is a path fraught with significant risks and, from an ethical and Islamic perspective, highly discouraged. Instead of looking for illicit workarounds, which often lead to malware, security vulnerabilities, and a lack of support, the most straightforward and secure way to experience PaintShop Pro 2021, or any legitimate software, is to acquire it through official channels. This ensures you receive a fully functional, safe, and up-to-date product, along with crucial technical support. For those interested in PaintShop Pro, you can actually 👉 get 15% OFF with our Limited Time PaintShop Pro Coupon, and a FREE TRIAL is included! This allows you to legally try out the software and purchase it at a discount, honoring the intellectual property of its creators and ensuring your digital well-being.

Table of Contents

The Perils of “Cracked” Software: A Digital Minefield

Diving into the world of “cracked” software, like a purported “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack,” is akin to walking through a minefield blindfolded.

While the allure of “free” might seem tempting, the hidden costs—be it legal repercussions, security breaches, or compromised system performance—far outweigh any perceived savings.

From a moral and ethical standpoint, particularly within an Islamic framework, intellectual property rights are significant.

Stealing someone’s labor, even digitally, is a clear transgression.

Corel, the creators of PaintShop Pro, invest immense resources into developing and refining their software.

Using a cracked version denies them their rightful compensation and discourages further innovation.

Legal Ramifications of Piracy

Engaging with pirated software isn’t just unethical. it’s illegal.

Fines and Penalties: Individuals caught using pirated software can face substantial monetary fines. For instance, in the United States, copyright infringement can lead to statutory damages of up to $150,000 per infringed work.
Civil Lawsuits: Software companies can file civil lawsuits against individuals or organizations for unauthorized use, leading to costly legal battles and settlements.
Criminal Charges: In severe cases, especially for large-scale distribution or corporate use, criminal charges can be pressed, leading to imprisonment. While personal use might not always lead to immediate jail time, the risk is never zero.
Corporate Exposure: Businesses using cracked software face immense risks, including audits from organizations like the Business Software Alliance BSA, which can result in multi-million dollar penalties. A 2017 BSA Global Software Survey found that 37% of software installed on PCs worldwide was unlicensed, representing a commercial value of nearly $46.3 billion. The message is clear: the legal net is wide.

Security Vulnerabilities and Malware Risks

Cracked software is a notorious vector for malware, viruses, and ransomware.

Those who create and distribute “cracks” often bundle malicious code within them, turning your quest for free software into a nightmare of data loss, identity theft, or system compromise. One office

Viruses and Trojans: These can range from annoying pop-ups to destructive programs that corrupt your files or operating system.
Spyware: Malicious software designed to secretly monitor your activities, steal personal information like passwords and credit card details, and transmit it to third parties.
Ransomware: This insidious form of malware encrypts your files, rendering them inaccessible until you pay a ransom, usually in cryptocurrency. The FBI reported that ransomware attacks cost victims over $34 million in 2021.
Backdoors: Cracked software can create hidden backdoors in your system, allowing attackers remote access and control over your computer without your knowledge.
Rootkits: These are sophisticated malware types designed to hide their presence and activities on your system, making them incredibly difficult to detect and remove. They can grant attackers persistent, high-level access.
Adware Overload: Many cracked software packages come bundled with aggressive adware, flooding your system with unwanted advertisements, redirecting your browser, and significantly degrading your user experience.

Lack of Updates and Support

When you opt for a “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack,” you’re essentially cut off from the official ecosystem.

This means no critical security patches, no feature updates, and absolutely no technical support.

No Security Patches: Software companies regularly release updates to patch vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Without these updates, your system remains exposed to known threats.
Missing Features and Bug Fixes: Legitimate software receives regular updates that introduce new features, improve performance, and fix bugs. Cracked versions miss out on these enhancements, often stagnating in an outdated and potentially buggy state.
No Technical Support: Encounter a problem with a legitimate copy of PaintShop Pro? You can reach out to Corel’s support team. With a cracked version, you’re on your own, left to troubleshoot complex issues without expert assistance.
Compatibility Issues: As operating systems and other software evolve, outdated cracked versions may encounter compatibility issues, leading to crashes or non-functionality. A 2022 report by Statista indicated that over 70% of Windows users are on Windows 10 or 11, which frequently receive updates that might break compatibility with older, unpatched software.

Ethical and Religious Considerations: The Islamic Perspective

From an Islamic perspective, the use of “cracked” or pirated software is problematic.

Islam places a strong emphasis on honesty, fair dealings, and respecting the rights of others.

This extends to intellectual property, which is seen as a form of proprietary right.

Respecting Intellectual Property Rights

In Islam, the concept of “Haqq al-Ibtikar” right of innovation or invention is recognized.

This means that the effort, time, and creativity invested by an individual or entity in creating something new are considered their property, and others should not unjustly benefit from it.

Analogy to Tangible Property: Islamic scholars often draw an analogy between intellectual property and tangible property. Just as it is forbidden to steal someone’s car or their money, it is equally forbidden to steal their intellectual output without their permission.
Principle of Justice Adl: Islam mandates justice in all dealings. Using software without paying for it, when payment is required, is seen as an act of injustice against the creators, denying them their rightful compensation for their labor.
Hadith on Rights: The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him said, “Give the laborer his wages before his sweat dries.” This emphasizes the importance of compensating individuals fairly for their work, a principle that applies to software developers as well.

Avoiding Deception and Dishonesty

The very act of using cracked software often involves deceptive practices, bypassing security measures, and misleading the software vendor. Islam strictly prohibits deception and dishonesty.

Prohibition of Cheating: The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him said, “Whoever cheats is not one of us.” This broad principle covers all forms of deception, including the use of fraudulent means to acquire or use software.
Integrity Amanah: Muslims are encouraged to uphold integrity and trustworthiness Amanah in all their dealings. Using cracked software goes against this principle of being trustworthy and honest.
Consequences in the Hereafter: Beyond legal repercussions in this world, actions like theft and deception carry spiritual consequences in the afterlife. Repentance and seeking forgiveness from those whose rights have been violated are essential.

Promoting Halal Earnings and Ethical Consumption

Islam encourages Muslims to earn their livelihood through lawful halal and ethical means.

This extends to how one acquires and uses goods and services. Coreldraw graphics suite subscription

Halal Earnings: Money saved by using cracked software is not considered a blessed or “halal” saving, as it comes from an illicit act. Muslims are encouraged to ensure all their earnings and savings are legitimate.
Ethical Consumption: Choosing to pay for legitimate software is an act of supporting ethical business practices and intellectual innovation. It fosters an environment where creators are rewarded for their efforts, encouraging further development that benefits society.
Seeking Barakah Blessing: There is a strong belief in Islam that true blessing barakah comes from adhering to lawful and ethical means. Engaging in illicit activities, even seemingly small ones, can remove blessings from one’s life.

Alternatives to Cracking: Smart and Secure Choices

Instead of resorting to illicit and risky “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” methods, there are numerous legitimate, smart, and secure alternatives to access powerful photo editing tools, often at a minimal cost or even for free.

These options not only ensure your digital safety but also align with ethical principles.

Leveraging Free Trials and Discounts

Many reputable software companies offer free trials, providing a fantastic opportunity to test out their products before making a purchase.

Furthermore, look out for official discounts and promotions.

PaintShop Pro Free Trial: Corel, the developer of PaintShop Pro, frequently offers a free trial period, typically 15 or 30 days. This allows you to fully explore the software’s capabilities and determine if it meets your needs without any financial commitment.
Educational Discounts: If you are a student or educator, many software companies, including Corel, offer significant educational discounts on their products. These can sometimes be as much as 50-70% off the retail price.
Seasonal Sales and Bundles: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or end-of-year sales where software companies offer substantial discounts. Bundle deals, which include PaintShop Pro with other related software or assets, can also provide excellent value.
Affiliate Promotions: As highlighted in our introduction, legitimate affiliate promotions, like the one we share for PaintShop Pro, can provide direct savings. 👉 You can get 15% OFF PaintShop Pro through our limited-time coupon, and a FREE TRIAL is included! This is a safe and ethical way to save money.

Exploring Affordable & Subscription-Based Models

The software industry has shifted towards more flexible pricing models, including subscriptions and one-time purchases that are significantly more affordable than traditional perpetual licenses.

Subscription Services: While Corel PaintShop Pro is primarily a one-time purchase, many software solutions now offer subscription models e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud. These allow you to pay a monthly or annual fee, spreading out the cost and often including continuous updates and cloud storage. Data from Statista indicates that subscription software revenue is projected to grow to over $218 billion by 2025.
One-Time Purchase: PaintShop Pro itself offers a perpetual license, meaning you buy it once and own that version forever. While updates to new versions require a new purchase often at an upgrade price, this can be more cost-effective in the long run for users who don’t need the absolute latest features every year.
Tiered Pricing: Some software offers different tiers e.g., Standard, Pro, Ultimate with varying feature sets and price points. You can choose the tier that best fits your budget and needs, avoiding overpaying for features you won’t use.

Utilizing Robust Free and Open-Source Software FOSS

For users on a tight budget or those who prefer open-source solutions, there are incredibly powerful and feature-rich free alternatives that can rival professional-grade software.

GIMP GNU Image Manipulation Program: Often hailed as the free alternative to Photoshop, GIMP is a robust, open-source image editor with a vast array of tools for retouching, image composition, and authoring. It supports numerous file formats, offers extensive customization, and has a large, active community providing tutorials and plugins. Its capabilities are far beyond basic editing.
Krita: While primarily known as a digital painting and drawing tool, Krita also offers excellent image manipulation features, making it a viable option for photographers and graphic designers. It’s open-source, free, and incredibly powerful.
Paint.NET: A free image and photo manipulation software for Windows, Paint.NET is simpler than GIMP but offers powerful features like layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and a wide variety of useful and powerful tools. It’s often praised for its intuitive interface and performance.
Photopea: An online, web-based photo editor that is surprisingly powerful and supports PSD, XCF, Sketch, XD, and CDR formats. It looks and feels very much like Photoshop, making it a great option for quick edits or users who prefer not to install software. It’s free to use with ads, or you can pay a small subscription to remove them.

The Features You’d Miss in a “Cracked” PaintShop Pro 2021

If you were to hypothetically use a “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack,” you wouldn’t just be missing out on ethical standing or security.

You’d be actively depriving yourself of the full, intended experience and the benefits that come with a legitimate license.

PaintShop Pro 2021, and subsequent versions, are designed with user experience and continuous improvement in mind, something pirated versions cannot replicate.

Corel’s Ongoing Development and Innovations

Corel, the developer of PaintShop Pro, invests significantly in research and development, rolling out new features, performance enhancements, and compatibility updates with each iteration. Corel aftershot pro crack

AI-Powered Features: PaintShop Pro 2021 introduced significant AI-powered tools, such as AI Upsampling for enlarging photos without losing quality, AI Denoise for removing unwanted noise, and AI Artifact Removal for fixing compression artifacts. These sophisticated tools are regularly refined and improved in official updates.
Performance Enhancements: Each new version often brings under-the-hood optimizations for faster loading times, smoother editing, and improved responsiveness. For instance, PaintShop Pro 2021 saw a reported 200% faster launch time compared to previous versions for some users, thanks to specific code optimizations.
Content and Creativity Packs: Legitimate users often gain access to exclusive content packs, brush sets, textures, and templates that enhance their creative workflow. These are typically not included or accessible in cracked versions.
New Tools and Workflows: Corel consistently introduces new tools and streamlines workflows based on user feedback and industry trends. Examples include enhanced Text Tools, improved Selection Tools, and more flexible Layer controls.

Access to Updates and Patches

Official versions of PaintShop Pro benefit from regular updates that address bugs, improve stability, and patch security vulnerabilities.

This continuous maintenance is crucial for a smooth and secure user experience.

Critical Security Fixes: No software is immune to vulnerabilities. Corel releases patches to address potential security flaws, protecting your system and data. Cracked versions receive none of these, leaving you exposed.
Bug Fixes and Stability Improvements: From minor glitches to application crashes, software inevitably has bugs. Official updates systematically address these, leading to a more stable and reliable application.
Compatibility Updates: As operating systems Windows, graphics drivers, and camera RAW formats evolve, software needs to be updated to maintain full compatibility. Without updates, your cracked software may become unusable with new hardware or software. For example, new camera models release updated RAW formats that only officially patched software can read.

Technical Support and Community Resources

One of the most undervalued benefits of legitimate software is access to official support channels and a vibrant user community.

Direct Technical Support: Encounter a complex issue or need guidance on a feature? Legitimate users can contact Corel’s dedicated support team for assistance, typically via email, phone, or live chat. This invaluable resource is unavailable for cracked versions.
Official Documentation and Tutorials: Corel provides extensive online documentation, user guides, and video tutorials that walk you through every feature and workflow. These resources are designed to help you master the software efficiently.
User Forums and Communities: Official software communities are thriving hubs where users share tips, troubleshoot problems, and get advice from experienced peers and sometimes even Corel staff. This collaborative environment is highly beneficial. Data suggests that over 60% of users prefer self-service options like online forums before contacting direct support.
Exclusive Webinars and Training: Corel often hosts webinars, online workshops, and special training sessions for its licensed users, offerings into advanced features and techniques.

Why Investing in Legitimate Software Pays Off

While the upfront cost of legitimate software might seem like an hurdle, viewing it as an investment rather than an expense reveals its true value.

Beyond the ethical and legal compliance, it brings tangible benefits that contribute to efficiency, security, and peace of mind.

Enhanced Security and System Integrity

The most compelling reason to opt for legitimate software is the uncompromised security it offers.

Your digital life is too valuable to risk with unknown sources.

Malware Protection: Legitimate software downloaded from official sources is free from bundled malware, viruses, and other malicious payloads. This significantly reduces your risk of data breaches, identity theft, and system damage. Cybersecurity Ventures predicted that cybercrime would cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, highlighting the immense financial and personal impact of insecure digital practices.
Stable and Reliable Performance: Without the interference of cracked code or malicious injections, legitimate software performs as intended, providing a stable and reliable editing environment. This translates to fewer crashes, faster processing, and a smoother workflow.
Privacy Protection: Cracked software might contain spyware or adware that monitors your activities and collects your personal data without your consent. Legitimate software, especially from reputable companies, adheres to strict privacy policies, protecting your sensitive information.

Full Functionality and Optimal Performance

Every feature, tool, and optimization designed by the developers is available and fully functional when you use a legitimate copy.

Unrestricted Access to Features: You get access to all the advertised features, including advanced AI tools, content packs, and specialized effects. Cracked versions often have disabled features, hidden limitations, or simply don’t work correctly.
Peak Performance: Software developers optimize their products for specific hardware and operating systems. Legitimate software, kept up-to-date, runs at peak performance, leveraging your system’s resources effectively. Cracked versions can be poorly optimized, leading to sluggishness and inefficiencies.
Future-Proofing: Official software is designed to be compatible with future operating system updates and hardware advancements. This ensures that your investment continues to be valuable for years to come.

Peace of Mind and Ethical Conduct

Beyond the technical advantages, using legitimate software provides an invaluable sense of peace and aligns with ethical principles.

No Legal Worries: You can use the software without the constant worry of legal repercussions, fines, or criminal charges. This peace of mind allows you to focus purely on your creative work.
Ethical Alignment: For individuals, especially those guided by Islamic principles, using legitimate software is an act of ethical conduct, respecting the rights of creators and avoiding deceptive practices. This aligns with the values of honesty, justice, and fair dealings.
Supporting Innovation: Your purchase directly supports the developers and their teams, enabling them to continue innovating, improving the software, and creating new tools that benefit the entire creative community. You become a part of the solution, not the problem. A 2020 report by the International Data Corporation IDC estimated that for every $1 spent on licensed software, $4.31 is generated in the local economy.

Transitioning to Legitimate Software: A Step-by-Step Guide

Deciding to move from a potentially problematic “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” scenario to a legitimate and secure software solution is a commendable and wise choice. This transition doesn’t have to be complicated. Photo editing

It’s a straightforward process that safeguards your digital life and supports ethical practices.

Step 1: Remove Any Illicit Software

Before installing any legitimate software, it’s crucial to completely remove any cracked versions from your system.

This minimizes potential conflicts and eliminates lingering malicious code.

Uninstall via Control Panel Windows: Navigate to “Control Panel” > “Programs” > “Programs and Features” or “Apps & features” in Windows 10/11 Settings. Locate the cracked PaintShop Pro entry and select “Uninstall.”
Delete Residual Files: After uninstalling, manually check common software installation directories e.g., C:\Program Files, C:\Program Files x86 for any remaining folders related to the cracked software. Also, check user-specific application data folders %APPDATA%, %LOCALAPPDATA% and temporary files %TEMP%. Be cautious not to delete unrelated system files.
Registry Clean-up Advanced: For experienced users, running a reputable registry cleaner or manually checking the Windows Registry Type regedit in Run for remnants can ensure a cleaner system. However, exercise extreme caution as incorrect registry edits can cause system instability.
Run a Full System Scan: After removal, perform a thorough scan of your entire computer using a reputable antivirus and anti-malware program e.g., Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, Avast, Kaspersky. This helps identify and remove any hidden threats that the cracked software might have introduced.

Step 2: Explore Legitimate Purchase Options

With your system clean, it’s time to explore the official avenues for acquiring PaintShop Pro or suitable alternatives. Remember, there are often ways to save money.

Visit the Official Corel Website: The most direct and secure way to purchase PaintShop Pro is from Corel’s official website. Here, you’ll find the latest versions, pricing, and bundle offers.
Look for Current Promotions and Discounts: Check the Corel website’s “Deals” or “Promotions” section. Also, remember to utilize our exclusive affiliate link for a potential discount: 👉 Get 15% OFF PaintShop Pro with a FREE TRIAL included! This is a legitimate way to save money while supporting ethical software distribution.
Consider Bundles: Corel often offers PaintShop Pro as part of a bundle with other software, such as AfterShot Pro RAW photo editing or Painter Essentials. These bundles can provide significant value if you need multiple tools.
Check Authorized Retailers: Reputable online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or official software distributors are also safe places to purchase licenses. Always ensure the retailer is authorized to avoid counterfeit keys.

Step 3: Install and Register Your Software

Once you’ve purchased your legitimate license, the installation process is straightforward and typically guided.

Download from Official Source: Download the installer directly from the Corel website after your purchase. This ensures you receive the latest, clean, and complete installation files.
Follow Installation Prompts: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions. The process is usually automated and user-friendly.
Enter Your License Key: During or after installation, you will be prompted to enter your unique license key serial number that you received upon purchase. This activates your software and registers it as legitimate.
Activate Your Product: Ensure your computer is connected to the internet to complete the activation process. This links your software to your Corel account and confirms your license.
Check for Updates: Immediately after installation, check for any available software updates. Corel frequently releases patches and minor updates, and it’s best to have the latest version for security and performance.

Step 4: Explore Alternatives if PaintShop Pro Isn’t an Option

If PaintShop Pro doesn’t fit your budget even with discounts, or if you prefer a different workflow, there are excellent free and open-source alternatives that offer robust photo editing capabilities.

GIMP: Download GIMP from its official website gimp.org. It’s a powerful, free, and open-source image editor that can handle most photo manipulation tasks.
Krita: Available at krita.org, Krita is a fantastic choice for digital painting and can also serve as a capable image editor.
Paint.NET: For Windows users, Paint.NET getpaint.net offers a more streamlined interface than GIMP but still provides powerful features like layers.
Photopea: Access Photopea directly in your web browser at photopea.com. It’s a remarkably feature-rich online editor that mimics Photoshop’s interface.

By following these steps, you not only gain access to powerful photo editing tools but also ensure your digital security, support ethical business practices, and align your actions with principles of honesty and justice.

It’s an investment in your digital well-being and a testament to responsible consumption.

FAQs related to “Paintshop pro 2021 crack”

Is “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” safe to download?

No, “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” is generally not safe to download. Pdf to doc edit

Cracked software often contains malware, viruses, spyware, or ransomware that can compromise your computer’s security, steal your data, or even render your system unusable.

Is it legal to use a “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack”?

No, it is not legal to use a “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack.” Using cracked software constitutes copyright infringement and is illegal.

You could face legal repercussions, including fines and civil lawsuits, if caught.

What are the risks of using cracked software like PaintShop Pro 2021?

The risks include legal penalties fines, lawsuits, security vulnerabilities malware, viruses, ransomware, lack of official updates and bug fixes, no technical support, and unstable software performance.

Can using cracked software harm my computer?

Yes, using cracked software can severely harm your computer by introducing malicious code that can corrupt files, steal personal information, encrypt your data for ransom, or create backdoors for unauthorized access.

Will “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” receive updates?

No, a “PaintShop Pro 2021 crack” will not receive official updates from Corel.

This means you will miss out on critical security patches, performance enhancements, and new features introduced in legitimate versions.

Where can I get a legitimate copy of PaintShop Pro?

You can get a legitimate copy of PaintShop Pro directly from the official Corel website or through authorized retail partners like Amazon or Best Buy.

Is there a free trial available for PaintShop Pro?

Yes, Corel typically offers a free trial for PaintShop Pro, allowing you to test out the full features of the software for a limited period e.g., 15 or 30 days before making a purchase. Paradox 11

Are there any discounts available for PaintShop Pro?

Yes, discounts are often available through official promotions, seasonal sales, educational discounts, or affiliate partnerships.

For example, you can often find a coupon for 15% off and a free trial included through specific promotions.

What are some ethical and free alternatives to PaintShop Pro?

Excellent ethical and free alternatives include GIMP GNU Image Manipulation Program, Krita, Paint.NET for Windows, and Photopea a web-based editor. These are powerful and legal options.

Does Corel actively pursue users of cracked PaintShop Pro software?

Software companies like Corel actively protect their intellectual property.

While they might focus on larger-scale distributors, individuals using cracked software are still at risk of legal action, especially if linked to significant infringement.

How do I know if a PaintShop Pro download is legitimate?

A legitimate download will always come directly from the official Corel website after purchase or from an authorized reseller.

If you are prompted to disable antivirus software or download from suspicious third-party sites, it’s likely not legitimate.

Can I upgrade from an older version of PaintShop Pro to 2021 legally?

Yes, if you own a legitimate older version of PaintShop Pro, Corel typically offers upgrade pricing for newer versions, which is a more affordable way to stay updated than buying a full new license.

What is the difference between PaintShop Pro and PaintShop Pro Ultimate?

PaintShop Pro is the standard version, while PaintShop Pro Ultimate includes additional bonus packs, premium software like AfterShot Pro for RAW editing, Painter Essentials, or specific creative content, and sometimes more advanced features, offering greater value.

Can I install PaintShop Pro 2021 on multiple computers with one license?

Typically, a single-user license for PaintShop Pro allows installation on one or two computers, provided only one copy is in use at any given time. Sell your artwork online for free

Always check the specific End User License Agreement EULA that comes with your purchase.

What features did PaintShop Pro 2021 introduce?

PaintShop Pro 2021 notably introduced AI-powered features like AI Upsampling, AI Denoise, and AI Artifact Removal, significant performance enhancements, and new creative content.

Is there a cloud-based version of PaintShop Pro?

No, PaintShop Pro is a desktop-based software application and does not currently offer a fully cloud-based version. It is installed directly on your computer.

How often does Corel release new versions of PaintShop Pro?

Corel typically releases a new major version of PaintShop Pro annually, often in the latter half of the year, bringing new features and improvements.

Can I import my existing image files into a legitimate PaintShop Pro?

Yes, a legitimate PaintShop Pro can import a wide range of image file formats, including JPEG, PNG, TIFF, GIF, and various RAW formats from digital cameras.

What if I can’t afford PaintShop Pro, even with discounts?

If affordability is still a barrier, focus on the powerful free and open-source alternatives like GIMP or Krita.

They offer extensive capabilities and are entirely legal and safe to use.

Why is ethical software use important from an Islamic perspective?

From an Islamic perspective, ethical software use is important because it upholds intellectual property rights, promotes honesty, avoids deception, and ensures fair compensation for creators’ efforts, aligning with principles of justice and lawful earnings.

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Paintshop pro 2021 crack